Many people only see a doctor when something feels wrong. Yet some of the most common health problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type two diabetes, often cause no symptoms at all in their early stages. A yearly checkup gives you and your doctor a chance to spot changes early, when they are easiest to treat.
What happens at a checkup
A preventive visit usually starts with a conversation about how you feel, your family history and your daily habits. Your doctor will check your weight, blood pressure and heart, and may suggest blood tests to look at cholesterol, blood sugar and kidney health. It is also a good time to review medicines and catch up on vaccinations.
Screenings change as you grow
The checks you need depend on your age, sex and personal risk. Young adults may focus on blood pressure, mental health and vaccinations. In midlife, screenings for cholesterol, diabetes, breast, cervical, prostate and bowel health become more important. Later in life, checks for bone strength, eyesight, hearing and memory are added. Your doctor will build a plan that fits you.
Getting the most from your visit
Write down any questions or symptoms before your appointment, even small ones. Bring a list of your medicines and supplements, and know what conditions run in your family. Be honest about smoking, alcohol, sleep and stress, because this helps your doctor give advice that really works for you.
Bring these to your checkup
A little preparation makes the visit more useful:
- A list of current medicines and supplements
- Questions or symptoms you have noticed
- Your family health history
- Your vaccination records if you have them
- Notes on sleep, mood and energy levels
The best time to find a health problem is before it finds you.
Doctor's tip: Set a reminder for your next checkup on the same day you leave the clinic. Linking it to a birthday or season makes it easy to remember.
Due for a checkup? Our family doctors offer relaxed preventive visits with time for every question.
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